LegalizeCommission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2139 of 4 June 2021 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2020/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council by establishing the technical screening criteria for determining the conditions under which an economic activity qualifies as contributing substantially to climate change mitigation or climate change adaptation and for determining whether that economic activity causes no significant harm to any of the other environmental objectives (Text with EEA relevance)
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| The activity is performed using one of the following: (a) the aircraft with zero direct (tailpipe) CO2 emissions; (b) until 31 December 2029, the aircraft acquired before 11 December 2023, complying with the technical screening criteria specified in Section 3.21., subsection ‘Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation’, points (b) or (c); (c) until 31 December 2029, the aircraft acquired after 11 December 2023, complying with the technical screening criteria specified in Section 3.21., subsection ‘Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation’, points (b) or (c), and with the commitment that another non-compliant aircraft in the fleet is either: (i) permanently withdrawn from use within 6 months of delivery of the compliant aircraft in which case, the replacement ratio does not apply; or (ii) permanently withdrawn from the fleet within 6 months of delivery of the compliant aircraft in which case, the share of Taxonomy compliance of eligible aircraft is limited by the replacement ratio as set out in Section 3.21; whereby the aircraft permanently withdrawn from use or from the fleet: (i) is non-compliant with the margins defined in Section 3.21., subsection ‘Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation’, point (b); (ii) has at least 80 % of maximum take-off weight of the compliant aircraft; (iii) has remained in the fleet within at least 12 months prior to its withdrawal; (iv) has a proof of airworthiness dating back less than 6 months prior to the delivery of the compliant aircraft; (d) from 1 January 2030, the aircraft meeting technical screening criteria specified in points (b) or (c) above and operated with a minimum share of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), corresponding to 15 % in 2030 and increased by 2 percentage points annually thereafter; (e) the aircraft operated with a minimum share of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), corresponding to 5 % SAF in 2022, with the percentage of SAF increasing by 2 percentage points annually thereafter. The SAF use requirement referred to in points (d) and (e) is calculated with reference to the total aviation fuel used by the compliant aircraft and SAF used at the fleet level. Operators calculate compliance as the ratio of the quantity (expressed in tonnes) of SAF purchased at the fleet level divided by the total aviation fuel used by the compliant aircraft multiplied by 100. SAF are defined in a regulation on ensuring a level playing field for sustainable air transport. | The activity is performed using one of the following: (a) the aircraft with zero direct (tailpipe) CO2 emissions; (b) until 31 December 2029, the aircraft acquired before 11 December 2023, complying with the technical screening criteria specified in Section 3.21., subsection ‘Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation’, points (b) or (c); (c) until 31 December 2029, the aircraft acquired after 11 December 2023, complying with the technical screening criteria specified in Section 3.21., subsection ‘Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation’, points (b) or (c), and with the commitment that another non-compliant aircraft in the fleet is either: (i) permanently withdrawn from use within 6 months of delivery of the compliant aircraft in which case, the replacement ratio does not apply; or (ii) permanently withdrawn from the fleet within 6 months of delivery of the compliant aircraft in which case, the share of Taxonomy compliance of eligible aircraft is limited by the replacement ratio as set out in Section 3.21; whereby the aircraft permanently withdrawn from use or from the fleet: (i) is non-compliant with the margins defined in Section 3.21., subsection ‘Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation’, point (b); (ii) has at least 80 % of maximum take-off weight of the compliant aircraft; (iii) has remained in the fleet within at least 12 months prior to its withdrawal; (iv) has a proof of airworthiness dating back less than 6 months prior to the delivery of the compliant aircraft; (d) from 1 January 2030, the aircraft meeting technical screening criteria specified in points (b) or (c) above and operated with a minimum share of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), corresponding to 15 % in 2030 and increased by 2 percentage points annually thereafter; (e) the aircraft operated with a minimum share of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), corresponding to 5 % SAF in 2022, with the percentage of SAF increasing by 2 percentage points annually thereafter. The SAF use requirement referred to in points (d) and (e) is calculated with reference to the total aviation fuel used by the compliant aircraft and SAF used at the fleet level. Operators calculate compliance as the ratio of the quantity (expressed in tonnes) of SAF purchased at the fleet level divided by the total aviation fuel used by the compliant aircraft multiplied by 100. SAF are defined in a regulation on ensuring a level playing field for sustainable air transport. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | Measures are in place to prevent generation of waste in the use phase (maintenance, operation of transport services with regards to catering waste) and to manage any remaining waste in accordance with the waste hierarchy. Measures are in place to manage and recycle waste at the end-of life, including through decommissioning contractual agreements with recycling service providers, reflection in financial projections or official project documentation. These measures ensure that components and materials are segregated and treated to maximise recycling and reuse in accordance with the waste hierarchy, EU waste regulation principles and applicable regulations, in particular through the reuse and recycling of batteries and electronics and the critical raw materials therein. These measures also include the control and management of hazardous materials. |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix C to this Annex. The aircraft complies with the relevant requirements referred to in Article 9(2) of the Regulation (EU) 2018/1139. The aircraft compliant with the technical screening criteria in points (b) to (e) complies with the following standards: (a) for aircraft other than freighter: amendment 13 of Volume I (noise), Chapter 14 of Annex 16 to the Chicago Convention, where the sum of the differences at all three measurement points between the maximum noise levels and the maximum permitted noise levels specified in 14.4.1.1, 14.4.1.2 and 14.4.1.3, shall not be less than 22 EPNdB; for freighter aircraft: amendment 13 of Volume I (noise), Chapter 14 of Annex 16 to the Chicago Convention; (b) amendment 10 of Volume II (engine emissions), Chapters 2 and 4, of Annex 16 to the Chicago Convention. |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
6.20. Air transport ground handling operations
Description of the activity
Manufacture, repair, maintenance, overhaul, retrofitting, design, repurposing and upgrade, purchase, financing, renting, leasing and operation of equipment and service activities incidental to air transportation (ground handling), including ground services activities at airports and cargo handling, including loading and unloading of goods from aircraft.
The economic activity includes:
- (a) vehicles for aircraft marshalling and other services within the apron;
- (b) equipment for passenger boarding, including passenger shuttles, mobile steps;
- (c) equipment for baggage and freight handling including belt loaders, baggage tractors, airport pallet trucks lower deck loaders, main deck loaders;
- (d) equipment for catering including cool container dollies, excluding equipment with refrigeration units powered by an internal combustion engine;
- (e) maintenance equipment including maintenance stands and platforms;
- (f) pushback tugs;
- (g) de-icing equipment for aircraft and engine de-icing;
- (h) snow ploughs and other snow clearance and surface de-icing equipment;
- (i) non-autonomous taxiing.
The economic activity does not include vehicles for transport of passengers and crew and for aircraft refuelling used within the airport covered in Sections 3.3., 6.3. and 6.6 of this Annex.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular H52.23, H52.24, H52.29 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| Ground handling vehicles’ direct (tailpipe) CO2 emissions are zero. The propulsion of all ground handling devices and equipment comes from a zero-emissions motor. | Ground handling vehicles’ direct (tailpipe) CO2 emissions are zero. The propulsion of all ground handling devices and equipment comes from a zero-emissions motor. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix B to this Annex. With regard to de-icing activities, measures are in place to ensure the necessary discharge controls at airport level, to reduce the environmental impact on watercourses, including through use of more environmentally sustainable chemicals, glycol recovery and surface water treatment. |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | Measures are in place to prevent generation of waste in the use phase (maintenance, operation of transport services with regards to catering waste) and to manage any remaining waste in accordance with the waste hierarchy. Measures are in place to manage and recycle waste at the end-of life, including through decommissioning contractual agreements with recycling service providers, reflection in financial projections or official project documentation. These measures ensure that components and materials are segregated and treated to maximise recycling and reuse in accordance with the waste hierarchy, EU waste regulation principles and applicable regulations, in particular through the reuse and recycling of batteries and electronics and the critical raw materials therein. These measures also include the control and management of hazardous materials. |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix C to this Annex. |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
CONSTRUCTION AND REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES
7.1. Construction of new buildings
Description of the activity
Development of building projects for residential and non-residential buildings by bringing together financial, technical and physical means to realise the building projects for later sale as well as the construction of complete residential or non-residential buildings, on own account for sale or on a fee or contract basis.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular F41.1 and F41.2, including also activities under F43, in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| Constructions of new buildings for which: 1. The Primary Energy Demand (PED) [^E0321], defining the energy performance of the building resulting from the construction, is at least 10 % lower than the threshold set for the nearly zero-energy building (NZEB) requirements in national measures implementing Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council [^E0322]. The energy performance is certified using an as built Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). 2. For buildings larger than 5 000 m2 [^E0323], upon completion, the building resulting from the construction undergoes testing for air-tightness and thermal integrity [^E0324], and any deviation in the levels of performance set at the design stage or defects in the building envelope are disclosed to investors and clients. As an alternative; where robust and traceable quality control processes are in place during the construction process this is acceptable as an alternative to thermal integrity testing. 3. For buildings larger than 5 000 m2 [^E0325], the life-cycle Global Warming Potential (GWP) [^E0326] of the building resulting from the construction has been calculated for each stage in the life cycle and is disclosed to investors and clients on demand. | Constructions of new buildings for which: 1. The Primary Energy Demand (PED) [^E0321], defining the energy performance of the building resulting from the construction, is at least 10 % lower than the threshold set for the nearly zero-energy building (NZEB) requirements in national measures implementing Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council [^E0322]. The energy performance is certified using an as built Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). 2. For buildings larger than 5 000 m2 [^E0323], upon completion, the building resulting from the construction undergoes testing for air-tightness and thermal integrity [^E0324], and any deviation in the levels of performance set at the design stage or defects in the building envelope are disclosed to investors and clients. As an alternative; where robust and traceable quality control processes are in place during the construction process this is acceptable as an alternative to thermal integrity testing. 3. For buildings larger than 5 000 m2 [^E0325], the life-cycle Global Warming Potential (GWP) [^E0326] of the building resulting from the construction has been calculated for each stage in the life cycle and is disclosed to investors and clients on demand. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | Where installed, except for installations in residential building units, the specified water use for the following water appliances are attested by product datasheets, a building certification or an existing product label in the Union, in accordance with the technical specifications laid down in Appendix E to this Annex: (a) wash hand basin taps and kitchen taps have a maximum water flow of 6 litres/min; (b) showers have a maximum water flow of 8 litres/min; (c) WCs, including suites, bowls and flushing cisterns, have a full flush volume of a maximum of 6 litres and a maximum average flush volume of 3,5 litres; (d) urinals use a maximum of 2 litres/bowl/hour. Flushing urinals have a maximum full flush volume of 1 litre. To avoid impact from the construction site, the activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix B to this Annex. |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | At least 70 % (by weight) of the non-hazardous construction and demolition waste (excluding naturally occurring material referred to in category 17 05 04 in the European List of Waste established by Decision 2000/532/EC) generated on the construction site is prepared for reuse, recycling and other material recovery, including backfilling operations using waste to substitute other materials, in accordance with the waste hierarchy and the EU Construction and Demolition Waste Management Protocol [^E0327]. Operators limit waste generation in processes related to construction and demolition, in accordance with the EU Construction and Demolition Waste Management Protocol and taking into account best available techniques and using selective demolition to enable removal and safe handling of hazardous substances and facilitate reuse and high-quality recycling by selective removal of materials, using available sorting systems for construction and demolition waste. Building designs and construction techniques support circularity and in particular demonstrate, with reference to ISO 20887 [^E0328] or other standards for assessing the disassembly or adaptability of buildings, how they are designed to be more resource efficient, adaptable, flexible and dismantleable to enable reuse and recycling. |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | Building components and materials used in the construction comply with the criteria set out in Appendix C to this Annex. Building components and materials used in the construction that may come into contact with occupiers [^E0329] emit less than 0,06 mg of formaldehyde per m3 of test chamber air upon testing in accordance with the conditions specified in Annex XVII to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 and less than 0,001 mg of other categories 1A and 1B carcinogenic volatile organic compounds per m3 of test chamber air, upon testing in accordance with CEN/EN 16516 [^E0330] or ISO 16000-3:2011 [^E0331] or other equivalent standardised test conditions and determination methods [^E0332]. Where the new construction is located on a potentially contaminated site (brownfield site), the site has been subject to an investigation for potential contaminants, for example using standard ISO 18400 [^E0333]. Measures are taken to reduce noise, dust and pollutant emissions during construction or maintenance works. |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix D to this Annex. The new construction is not built on one of the following: (a) arable land and crop land with a moderate to high level of soil fertility and below ground biodiversity as referred to the EU LUCAS survey [^E0334]; (b) greenfield land of recognised high biodiversity value and land that serves as habitat of endangered species (flora and fauna) listed on the European Red List [^E0335] or the IUCN Red List [^E0336]; (c) land matching the definition of forest as set out in national law used in the national greenhouse gas inventory, or where not available, is in accordance with the FAO definition of forest [^E0337]. |
The calculated amount of energy needed to meet the energy demand associated with the typical uses of a building expressed by a numeric indicator of total primary energy use in kWh/m2 per year and based on the relevant national calculation methodology and as displayed on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 May 2010 on the energy performance of buildings (OJ L 153, 18.6.2010, p. 13).
For residential buildings, the testing is made for a representative set of dwelling/apartment types.
The testing is carried out in accordance with EN13187 (Thermal Performance of Buildings - Qualitative Detection of Thermal Irregularities in Building Envelopes - Infrared Method) and EN 13829 (Thermal performance of buildings. Determination of air permeability of buildings. Fan pressurisation method) or equivalent standards accepted by the respective building control body where the building is located.
For residential buildings, the calculation and disclosure are made for a representative set of dwelling/apartment types.
The GWP is communicated as a numeric indicator for each life cycle stage expressed as kgCO2e/m2 (of useful internal floor area) averaged for one year of a reference study period of 50 years. The data selection, scenario definition and calculations are carried out in accordance with EN 15978 (BS EN 15978:2011. Sustainability of construction works. Assessment of environmental performance of buildings. Calculation method). The scope of building elements and technical equipment is as defined in the Level(s) common EU framework for indicator 1.2. Where a national calculation tool exists, or is required for making disclosures or for obtaining building permits, the respective tool may be used to provide the required disclosure. Other calculation tools may be used if they fulfil the minimum criteria laid down by the Level(s) common EU framework (version of 4.6.2021: https://susproc.jrc.ec.europa.eu/product-bureau/product-groups/412/documents), see indicator 1.2 user manual.
EU Construction and Demolition Waste Protocol (version of 4.6.2021: https://ec.europa.eu/growth/content/eu-construction-and-demolition-waste-protocol-0_en).
[^E0328]: (8)
ISO 20887:2020, Sustainability in buildings and civil engineering works - Design for disassembly and adaptability - Principles, requirements and guidance (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/69370.html).
[^E0329]: (9)
Applying to paints and varnishes, ceiling tiles, floor coverings, including associated adhesives and sealants, internal insulation and interior surface treatments, such as those to treat damp and mould.
CEN/TS 16516: 2013, Construction products - Assessment of release of dangerous substances - Determination of emissions into indoor air.
ISO 16000-3:2011, Indoor air — Part 3: Determination of formaldehyde and other carbonyl compounds in indoor air and test chamber air — Active sampling method (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/51812.html).
The emissions thresholds for carcinogenic volatile organic compounds relate to a 28-day test period.
[^E0333]: (13)
ISO 18400 series on Soil quality — Sampling
JRC ESDCA, LUCAS: Land Use and Coverage Area frame Survey version of 4.6.2021: https://esdac.jrc.ec.europa.eu/projects/lucas
IUCN, The IUCN European Red List of Threatened Species (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iucn.org/regions/europe/our-work/biodiversity-conservation/european-red-list-threatened-species).
IUCN, The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iucnredlist.org).
Land spanning more than 0,5 hectares with trees higher than five meters and a canopy cover of more than 10 %, or trees able to reach those thresholds in situ. It does not include land that is predominantly under agricultural or urban land use, FAO Global Resources Assessment 2020. Terms and definitions.(version of 4.6.2021: http://www.fao.org/3/I8661EN/i8661en.pdf).
7.2. Renovation of existing buildings
Description of the activity
Construction and civil engineering works or preparation thereof.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular F41 and F43 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is a transitional activity as referred to in Article 10(2) of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| The building renovation complies with the applicable requirements for major renovations [^E0338]. Alternatively, it leads to a reduction of primary energy demand (PED) of at least 30 % [^E0339]. | The building renovation complies with the applicable requirements for major renovations [^E0338]. Alternatively, it leads to a reduction of primary energy demand (PED) of at least 30 % [^E0339]. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | Where installed as part of the renovation works, except for renovation works in residential building units, the specified water use for the following water appliances is attested by product datasheets, a building certification or an existing product label in the Union, in accordance with the technical specifications laid down in Appendix E to this Annex: (a) wash hand basin taps and kitchen taps have a maximum water flow of 6 litres/min; (b) showers have a maximum water flow of 8 litres/min; (c) WCs, including suites, bowls and flushing cisterns, have a full flush volume of a maximum of 6 litres and a maximum average flush volume of 3,5 litres; (d) urinals use a maximum of 2 litres/bowl/hour. Flushing urinals have a maximum full flush volume of 1 litre. |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | At least 70 % (by weight) of the non-hazardous construction and demolition waste (excluding naturally occurring material referred to in category 17 05 04 in the European List of Waste established by Decision 2000/532/EC) generated on the construction site is prepared for reuse, recycling and other material recovery, including backfilling operations using waste to substitute other materials, in accordance with the waste hierarchy and the EU Construction and Demolition Waste Management Protocol [^E0340]. Operators limit waste generation in processes related construction and demolition, in accordance with the EU Construction and Demolition Waste Management Protocol and taking into account best available techniques and using selective demolition to enable removal and safe handling of hazardous substances and facilitate reuse and high-quality recycling by selective removal of materials, using available sorting systems for construction and demolition waste. Building designs and construction techniques support circularity and in particular demonstrate, with reference to ISO 20887 [^E0341] or other standards for assessing the disassembly or adaptability of buildings, how they are designed to be more resource efficient, adaptable, flexible and dismantleable to enable reuse and recycling. |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | Building components and materials used in the construction comply with the criteria set out in Appendix C to this Annex. Building components and materials used in the building renovation that may come into contact with occupiers [^E0342] emit less than 0,06 mg of formaldehyde per m3 of test chamber air upon testing in accordance with the conditions specified in Annex XVII to Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 and less than 0,001 mg of other categories 1A and 1B carcinogenic volatile organic compounds per m3 of test chamber air, upon testing in accordance with CEN/EN 16516 or ISO 16000-3:2011 [^E0343] or other equivalent standardised test conditions and determination methods [^E0344]. Measures are taken to reduce noise, dust and pollutant emissions during construction or maintenance works. |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A. |
As set in the applicable national and regional building regulations for ‘major renovation’ implementing Directive 2010/31/EU. The energy performance of the building or the renovated part that is upgraded meets cost-optimal minimum energy performance requirements in accordance with the respective directive.
The initial primary energy demand and the estimated improvement is based on a detailed building survey, an energy audit conducted by an accredited independent expert or any other transparent and proportionate method, and validated through an Energy Performance Certificate. The 30 % improvement results from an actual reduction in primary energy demand (where the reductions in net primary energy demand through renewable energy sources are not taken into account), and can be achieved through a succession of measures within a maximum of three years.
[^E0340]: (3)
EU Construction and Demolition Waste Protocol (version of 4.6.2021: https://ec.europa.eu/growth/content/eu-construction-and-demolition-waste-protocol-0_en).
ISO 20887:2020, Sustainability in buildings and civil engineering works - Design for disassembly and adaptability - Principles, requirements and guidance (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/69370.html).
[^E0342]: (5)
Applying to paints and varnishes, ceiling tiles, floor coverings (including associated adhesives and sealants), internal insulation and interior surface treatments (such as to treat damp and mould).
[^E0343]: (6)
ISO 16000-3:2011, Indoor air — Part 3: Determination of formaldehyde and other carbonyl compounds in indoor air and test chamber air — Active sampling method (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/51812.html).
The emissions thresholds for carcinogenic volatile organic compounds relate to a 28-day test period.
7.3. Installation, maintenance and repair of energy efficiency equipment
Description of the activity
Individual renovation measures consisting in installation, maintenance or repair of energy efficiency equipment.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular F42, F43, M71, C16, C17, C22, C23, C25, C27, C28, S95.21, S95.22, C33.12 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| The activity consists in one of the following individual measures provided that they comply with minimum requirements set for individual components and systems in the applicable national measures implementing Directive 2010/31/EU and, where applicable, are rated in the highest two populated classes of energy efficiency in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1369 and delegated acts adopted under that Regulation: (a) addition of insulation to existing envelope components, such as external walls (including green walls), roofs (including green roofs), lofts, basements and ground floors (including measures to ensure air-tightness, measures to reduce the effects of thermal bridges and scaffolding) and products for the application of the insulation to the building envelope (including mechanical fixings and adhesive); (b) replacement of existing windows with new energy efficient windows; (c) replacement of existing external doors with new energy efficient doors; (d) installation and replacement of energy efficient light sources; (e) installation, replacement, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) and water heating systems, including equipment related to district heating services, with highly efficient technologies; (f) installation of low water and energy using kitchen and sanitary water fittings which comply with technical specifications set out in Appendix E to this Annex and, in case of shower solutions, mixer showers, shower outlets and taps, have a max water flow of 6 L/min or less attested by an existing label in the Union market. | The activity consists in one of the following individual measures provided that they comply with minimum requirements set for individual components and systems in the applicable national measures implementing Directive 2010/31/EU and, where applicable, are rated in the highest two populated classes of energy efficiency in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1369 and delegated acts adopted under that Regulation: (a) addition of insulation to existing envelope components, such as external walls (including green walls), roofs (including green roofs), lofts, basements and ground floors (including measures to ensure air-tightness, measures to reduce the effects of thermal bridges and scaffolding) and products for the application of the insulation to the building envelope (including mechanical fixings and adhesive); (b) replacement of existing windows with new energy efficient windows; (c) replacement of existing external doors with new energy efficient doors; (d) installation and replacement of energy efficient light sources; (e) installation, replacement, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) and water heating systems, including equipment related to district heating services, with highly efficient technologies; (f) installation of low water and energy using kitchen and sanitary water fittings which comply with technical specifications set out in Appendix E to this Annex and, in case of shower solutions, mixer showers, shower outlets and taps, have a max water flow of 6 L/min or less attested by an existing label in the Union market. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | N/A |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | Building components and materials comply with the criteria set out in Appendix C to this Annex. In case of addition of thermal insulation to an existing building envelope, a building survey is carried out in accordance with national law by a competent specialist with training in asbestos surveying. Any stripping of lagging that contains or is likely to contain asbestos, breaking or mechanical drilling or screwing or removal of insulation board, tiles and other asbestos containing materials is carried out by appropriately trained personnel, with health monitoring before, during and after the works, in accordance with national law. |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
7.4. Installation, maintenance and repair of charging stations for electric vehicles in buildings (and parking spaces attached to buildings)
Description of the activity
Installation, maintenance and repair of charging stations for electric vehicles in buildings and parking spaces attached to buildings.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular F42, F43, M71, C16, C17, C22, C23, C25, C27 or C28 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| Installation, maintenance or repair of charging stations for electric vehicles. | Installation, maintenance or repair of charging stations for electric vehicles. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | N/A |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | N/A |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
7.5. Installation, maintenance and repair of instruments and devices for measuring, regulation and controlling energy performance of buildings
Description of the activity
Installation, maintenance and repair of instruments and devices for measuring, regulation and controlling energy performance of buildings
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular F42, F43, M71, and C16, C17, C22, C23, C25, C27, C28, in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| The activity consists in one of the following individual measures: (a) installation, maintenance and repair of zoned thermostats, smart thermostat systems and sensing equipment, including. motion and day light control; (b) installation, maintenance and repair of building automation and control systems, building energy management systems (BEMS), lighting control systems and energy management systems (EMS); (c) installation, maintenance and repair of smart meters for gas, heat, cool and electricity; (d) installation, maintenance and repair of façade and roofing elements with a solar shading or solar control function, including those that support the growing of vegetation. | The activity consists in one of the following individual measures: (a) installation, maintenance and repair of zoned thermostats, smart thermostat systems and sensing equipment, including. motion and day light control; (b) installation, maintenance and repair of building automation and control systems, building energy management systems (BEMS), lighting control systems and energy management systems (EMS); (c) installation, maintenance and repair of smart meters for gas, heat, cool and electricity; (d) installation, maintenance and repair of façade and roofing elements with a solar shading or solar control function, including those that support the growing of vegetation. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | N/A |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | N/A |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
7.6. Installation, maintenance and repair of renewable energy technologies
Description of the activity
Installation, maintenance and repair of renewable energy technologies, on-site.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular F42, F43, M71, C16, C17, C22, C23, C25, C27 or C28, in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| | |
| --- | --- | | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | | The activity consists in one of the following individual measures, if installed on-site as technical building systems: (a) installation, maintenance and repair of solar photovoltaic systems and the ancillary technical equipment; (b) installation, maintenance and repair of solar hot water panels and the ancillary technical equipment; (c) installation, maintenance, repair and upgrade of heat pumps contributing to the targets for renewable energy in heat and cool in accordance with Directive (EU) 2018/2001 and the ancillary technical equipment; (d) installation, maintenance and repair of wind turbines and the ancillary technical equipment; (e) installation, maintenance and repair of solar transpired collectors and the ancillary technical equipment; (f) installation, maintenance and repair of thermal or electric energy storage units and the ancillary technical equipment; (g) installation, maintenance and repair of high efficiency micro CHP (combined heat and power) plant; (h) installation, maintenance and repair of heat exchanger/recovery systems. | The activity consists in one of the following individual measures, if installed on-site as technical building systems: (a) installation, maintenance and repair of solar photovoltaic systems and the ancillary technical equipment; (b) installation, maintenance and repair of solar hot water panels and the ancillary technical equipment; (c) installation, maintenance, repair and upgrade of heat pumps contributing to the targets for renewable energy in heat and cool in accordance with Directive (EU) 2018/2001 and the ancillary technical equipment; (d) installation, maintenance and repair of wind turbines and the ancillary technical equipment; (e) installation, maintenance and repair of solar transpired collectors and the ancillary technical equipment; (f) installation, maintenance and repair of thermal or electric energy storage units and the ancillary technical equipment; (g) installation, maintenance and repair of high efficiency micro CHP (combined heat and power) plant; (h) installation, maintenance and repair of heat exchanger/recovery systems. | | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | | (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. | | (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A | | (4) Transition to a circular economy | N/A | | (5) Pollution prevention and control | N/A | | (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
7.7. Acquisition and ownership of buildings
Description of the activity
Buying real estate and exercising ownership of that real estate.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with NACE code L68 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| 1. For buildings built before 31 December 2020, the building has at least an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) class A. As an alternative, the building is within the top 15 % of the national or regional building stock expressed as operational Primary Energy Demand (PED) and demonstrated by adequate evidence, which at least compares the performance of the relevant asset to the performance of the national or regional stock built before 31 December 2020 and at least distinguishes between residential and non-residential buildings. 2. For buildings built after 31 December 2020, the building meets the criteria specified in Section 7.1 of this Annex that are relevant at the time of the acquisition. 3. Where the building is a large non-residential building (with an effective rated output for heating systems, systems for combined space heating and ventilation, air-conditioning systems or systems for combined air-conditioning and ventilation of over 290 kW) it is efficiently operated through energy performance monitoring and assessment [^E0345]. | 1. For buildings built before 31 December 2020, the building has at least an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) class A. As an alternative, the building is within the top 15 % of the national or regional building stock expressed as operational Primary Energy Demand (PED) and demonstrated by adequate evidence, which at least compares the performance of the relevant asset to the performance of the national or regional stock built before 31 December 2020 and at least distinguishes between residential and non-residential buildings. 2. For buildings built after 31 December 2020, the building meets the criteria specified in Section 7.1 of this Annex that are relevant at the time of the acquisition. 3. Where the building is a large non-residential building (with an effective rated output for heating systems, systems for combined space heating and ventilation, air-conditioning systems or systems for combined air-conditioning and ventilation of over 290 kW) it is efficiently operated through energy performance monitoring and assessment [^E0345]. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | N/A |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | N/A |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
This can be demonstrated, for example, through the presence of an Energy Performance Contract or a building automation and control system in accordance with Article 14 (4) and Article 15 (4), of Directive 2010/31/EU.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
8.1. Data processing, hosting and related activities
Description of the activity
Storage, manipulation, management, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission or processing of data through data centres ([^E0346]), including edge computing.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with NACE code J63.11 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is a transitional activity as referred to in Article 10(2) of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| 1. The activity has implemented all relevant practices listed as ‘expected practices’ in the most recent version of the European Code of Conduct on Data Centre Energy Efficiency [^E0347], or in CEN-CENELEC document CLC TR50600-99-1 ‘Data centre facilities and infrastructures - Part 99-1: Recommended practices for energy management’ [^E0348]. The implementation of those practices is verified by an independent third-party and audited at least every three years. 2. Where an expected practice is not considered relevant due to physical, logistical, planning or other constraints, an explanation of why the expected practice is not applicable or practical is provided. Alternative best practices from the European Code of Conduct on Data Centre Energy Efficiency or other equivalent sources may be identified as direct replacements if they result in similar energy savings. 3. The global warming potential (GWP) of refrigerants used in the data centre cooling system does not exceed 675. | 1. The activity has implemented all relevant practices listed as ‘expected practices’ in the most recent version of the European Code of Conduct on Data Centre Energy Efficiency [^E0347], or in CEN-CENELEC document CLC TR50600-99-1 ‘Data centre facilities and infrastructures - Part 99-1: Recommended practices for energy management’ [^E0348]. The implementation of those practices is verified by an independent third-party and audited at least every three years. 2. Where an expected practice is not considered relevant due to physical, logistical, planning or other constraints, an explanation of why the expected practice is not applicable or practical is provided. Alternative best practices from the European Code of Conduct on Data Centre Energy Efficiency or other equivalent sources may be identified as direct replacements if they result in similar energy savings. 3. The global warming potential (GWP) of refrigerants used in the data centre cooling system does not exceed 675. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix B to this Annex. |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | The equipment used meets the requirements laid down in Directive 2009/125/EC for servers and data storage products. The equipment used does not contain the restricted substances listed in Annex II to Directive 2011/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council [^E0349], except where the concentration values by weight in homogeneous materials do not exceed the maximum values listed in that Annex. A waste management plan is in place and ensures maximal recycling at end of life of electrical and electronic equipment, including through contractual agreements with recycling partners, reflection in financial projections or official project documentation. At its end of life, the equipment undergoes preparation for reuse, recovery or recycling operations, or proper treatment, including the removal of all fluids and a selective treatment in accordance with Annex VII to Directive 2012/19/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council [^E0350]. |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | N/A |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
The most recent version of the European Code of Conduct on Data Centre Energy Efficiency is the latest version published at the Joint Research Centre European Energy Efficiency Platform (E3P) website, https://e3p.jrc.ec.europa.eu/communities/data-centres-code-conduct, with a transition period of six months starting from the day of its publication (the 2021 version is available at https://e3p.jrc.ec.europa.eu/publications/2021-best-practice-guidelines-eu-code-conduct-data-centre-energy-efficiency).
Issued on 1 July 2019 by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC), (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.cenelec.eu/dyn/www/f?p=104:110:508227404055501::::FSP_ORG_ID,FSP_PROJECT,FSP_LANG_ID:1258297,65095,25).
Directive 2011/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 8 June 2011 on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (OJ L 174, 1.7.2011, p. 88).
[^E0350]: (4)
Directive 2012/19/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on waste electrical and electronic equipment (OJ L 197, 24.7.2012, p. 38).
8.2. Data-driven solutions for GHG emissions reductions
Description of the activity
Development or use of ICT solutions that are aimed at collecting, transmitting, storing data and at its modelling and use where those activities are predominantly aimed at the provision of data and analytics enabling GHG emission reductions. Such ICT solutions may include, inter alia, the use of decentralized technologies (i.e. distributed ledger technologies), Internet of Things (IoT), 5G and Artificial Intelligence. The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular J61, J62 and J63.11 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| | |
| --- | --- | | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | | 1. The ICT solutions are predominantly used for the provision of data and analytics enabling GHG emission reductions. 2. Where an alternative solution/technology is already available on the market, the ICT solution demonstrates substantial life-cycle GHG emission savings compared to the best performing alternative solution/technology. Life-cycle GHG emissions and net emissions are calculated using Recommendation 2013/179/EU or, alternatively, using ETSI ES 203 199 [^E0351], ISO 14067:2018 [^E0352] or ISO 14064-2:2019 [^E0353]. Quantified life-cycle GHG emission reductions are verified by an independent third party which transparently assesses how the standard criteria, including those for critical review, have been followed when the value was derived. | 1. The ICT solutions are predominantly used for the provision of data and analytics enabling GHG emission reductions. 2. Where an alternative solution/technology is already available on the market, the ICT solution demonstrates substantial life-cycle GHG emission savings compared to the best performing alternative solution/technology. Life-cycle GHG emissions and net emissions are calculated using Recommendation 2013/179/EU or, alternatively, using ETSI ES 203 199 [^E0351], ISO 14067:2018 [^E0352] or ISO 14064-2:2019 [^E0353]. Quantified life-cycle GHG emission reductions are verified by an independent third party which transparently assesses how the standard criteria, including those for critical review, have been followed when the value was derived. | | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | | (2) Climate change adaptation | The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. | | (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | N/A | | (4) Transition to a circular economy | The equipment used meets the requirements set in accordance with Directive 2009/125/EC for servers and data storage products. The equipment used does not contain the restricted substances listed in Annex II to Directive 2011/65/EU, except where the concentration values by weight in homogeneous materials do not exceed those listed in that Annex. A waste management plan is in place and ensures maximal recycling at end of life of electrical and electronic equipment, including through contractual agreements with recycling partners, reflection in financial projections or official project documentation. At its end of life, the equipment undergoes preparation for reuse, recovery or recycling operations, or proper treatment, including the removal of all fluids and a selective treatment in accordance with Annex VII to Directive 2012/19/EU. | | (5) Pollution prevention and control | N/A | | (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | N/A |
ETSI ES 203 199 , Environmental Engineering (EE); Methodology for environmental Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) goods, networks and services (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_es/203100_203199/203199/01.03.00_50/es_203199v010300m.pdf). The ETSI standard ETSI ES 203 199 correspond to the ITU standard ITU–T L.1410.
ISO standard 14067:2018, Greenhouse gases — Carbon footprint of products — Requirements and guidelines for quantification (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/71206.html).
ISO standard14064-2:2019, Greenhouse gases — Part 2: Specification with guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emission reductions or removal enhancements (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/66454.html).
PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES
9.1. Close to market research, development and innovation
Description of the activity
Research, applied research and experimental development of solutions, processes, technologies, business models and other products dedicated to the reduction, avoidance or removal of GHG emissions (RD&I) for which the ability to reduce, remove or avoid GHG emissions in the target economic activities has at least been demonstrated in a relevant environment, corresponding to at least Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 ([^E0354]).
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular M71.1.2 and M72.1, or for research that is an integral part of those economic activities for which technical screening criteria are specified in this Annex, the NACE codes set out in other Sections of this Annex in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation | Substantial contribution to climate change mitigation |
| 1. The activity researches, develops or provides innovation for technologies, products or other solutions that are dedicated to one or more economic activities for which the technical screening criteria have been set out in this Annex. 2. The results of the research, development and innovation enable one or more of those economic activities to meet the respective criteria for substantial contribution to climate change mitigation, while respecting the relevant criteria for doing no significant harm to other environmental objectives. 3. The economic activity aims at bringing to market a solution that is not yet in the market and is expected to have a better performance in terms of life-cycle GHG emissions than best commercially available technologies based on public or market information. The implementation of the technologies, products or other solutions being researched results in overall net GHG emissions reductions over their life cycle. 4. Where the researched, developed or innovated technology, product or other solution already enables an activity or several activities addressed in this Annex to meet the technical screening criteria specified in the applicable Section of this Annex, or where that technology, product or other solution already enables one or more economic activities considered as enabling or transitional to meet the requirements specified in points 5 and 6 respectively, the research, development and innovation activity focuses on the development of equally low- or lower-emission technologies, products or other solutions with new significant advantages, such as lower cost. 5. Where a research activity is dedicated to one or more economic activities considered as enabling activities in accordance with Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation EU 2020/852 for which the technical screening criteria are set out in this Annex, the results of the research deliver innovative technologies, processes or products that allow those enabling activities and the activities that they ultimately enable to substantially reduce their GHG emissions or substantially improve their technological and economic feasibility in order to facilitate their scaling up. 6. Where a research activity is dedicated to one or more economic activities considered as transitional activities in accordance with Article 10(2) of Regulation EU 2020/852 for which the technical screening criteria are set out in this Annex, the technologies, products or other solutions researched enable the target activities to be carried out with substantially lower projected emissions compared to the technical screening criteria for substantial contribution to climate change mitigation set out in this Annex. Where a research activity is dedicated to one or more economic activities specified in Sections 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.11, 3.12, 3.13, 3.14 and 3.16 of this Annex, the technologies, products or other solutions either enable the target activities to be carried out with substantially lower GHG emission, which aim at a 30 % reduction compared to the relevant EU ETS benchmark or benchmarks [^E0355] or are dedicated to the widely accepted relevant low carbon technologies or processes in these sectors, notably electrification, in particular of heating and cooling, hydrogen as fuel or feedstock, CCS, CCU and biomass as fuel or feedstock, where biomass complies with the relevant requirements set out in Sections 4.8, 4.20, 4.24 in this Annex. 7. Where the researched, developed or innovated technology, product or other solution is at TRL 6 or 7, life-cycle GHG emissions are evaluated in simplified form by the entity carrying out the research. The entity demonstrates one of the following, where applicable: (a) a patent not older than 10 years associated with the technology, product or other solution, where information on its GHG emission reduction potential has been provided; (b) a permit obtained from a competent authority for operating the demonstration site associated with the innovative technology, product or other solution for the duration of the demonstration project, where information on its GHG emission reduction potential has been provided. Where the researched, developed or innovated technology, product or other solution is at TRL 8 or higher, life-cycle GHG emissions are calculated using Recommendation 2013/179/EU or, alternatively, using ISO 14067:2018 [^E0356] or ISO 14064-1:2018 [^E0357] and are verified by an independent third party. | 1. The activity researches, develops or provides innovation for technologies, products or other solutions that are dedicated to one or more economic activities for which the technical screening criteria have been set out in this Annex. 2. The results of the research, development and innovation enable one or more of those economic activities to meet the respective criteria for substantial contribution to climate change mitigation, while respecting the relevant criteria for doing no significant harm to other environmental objectives. 3. The economic activity aims at bringing to market a solution that is not yet in the market and is expected to have a better performance in terms of life-cycle GHG emissions than best commercially available technologies based on public or market information. The implementation of the technologies, products or other solutions being researched results in overall net GHG emissions reductions over their life cycle. 4. Where the researched, developed or innovated technology, product or other solution already enables an activity or several activities addressed in this Annex to meet the technical screening criteria specified in the applicable Section of this Annex, or where that technology, product or other solution already enables one or more economic activities considered as enabling or transitional to meet the requirements specified in points 5 and 6 respectively, the research, development and innovation activity focuses on the development of equally low- or lower-emission technologies, products or other solutions with new significant advantages, such as lower cost. 5. Where a research activity is dedicated to one or more economic activities considered as enabling activities in accordance with Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation EU 2020/852 for which the technical screening criteria are set out in this Annex, the results of the research deliver innovative technologies, processes or products that allow those enabling activities and the activities that they ultimately enable to substantially reduce their GHG emissions or substantially improve their technological and economic feasibility in order to facilitate their scaling up. 6. Where a research activity is dedicated to one or more economic activities considered as transitional activities in accordance with Article 10(2) of Regulation EU 2020/852 for which the technical screening criteria are set out in this Annex, the technologies, products or other solutions researched enable the target activities to be carried out with substantially lower projected emissions compared to the technical screening criteria for substantial contribution to climate change mitigation set out in this Annex. Where a research activity is dedicated to one or more economic activities specified in Sections 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.11, 3.12, 3.13, 3.14 and 3.16 of this Annex, the technologies, products or other solutions either enable the target activities to be carried out with substantially lower GHG emission, which aim at a 30 % reduction compared to the relevant EU ETS benchmark or benchmarks [^E0355] or are dedicated to the widely accepted relevant low carbon technologies or processes in these sectors, notably electrification, in particular of heating and cooling, hydrogen as fuel or feedstock, CCS, CCU and biomass as fuel or feedstock, where biomass complies with the relevant requirements set out in Sections 4.8, 4.20, 4.24 in this Annex. 7. Where the researched, developed or innovated technology, product or other solution is at TRL 6 or 7, life-cycle GHG emissions are evaluated in simplified form by the entity carrying out the research. The entity demonstrates one of the following, where applicable: (a) a patent not older than 10 years associated with the technology, product or other solution, where information on its GHG emission reduction potential has been provided; (b) a permit obtained from a competent authority for operating the demonstration site associated with the innovative technology, product or other solution for the duration of the demonstration project, where information on its GHG emission reduction potential has been provided. Where the researched, developed or innovated technology, product or other solution is at TRL 8 or higher, life-cycle GHG emissions are calculated using Recommendation 2013/179/EU or, alternatively, using ISO 14067:2018 [^E0356] or ISO 14064-1:2018 [^E0357] and are verified by an independent third party. |
| Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) | Do no significant harm (‘DNSH’) |
| (2) Climate change adaptation | The researched technology, product or other solution complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A to this Annex. |
| (3) Sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources | Any potential risks to the good status or the good ecological potential of bodies of water, including surface water and groundwater, or to the good environmental status of marine waters from the researched technology, product or other solution are evaluated and addressed. |
| (4) Transition to a circular economy | Any potential risks to the circular economy objectives from the researched technology, product or other solution are evaluated and addressed, by considering the types of potential significant harm as set out in Article 17(1), point. (d), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852. |
| (5) Pollution prevention and control | Any potential risks to generate a significant increase in the emissions of pollutants to air, water or land from the researched technology, product or other solution are evaluated and addressed. |
| (6) Protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems | Any potential risks to the good condition or resilience of ecosystems or to the conservation status of habitats and species, including those of Union interest, from the researched technology, product or other solution are evaluated and addressed. |
Reflecting the average value of the 10 % most efficient installations in 2016 and 2017 (t CO2 equivalents/t) as set out in the Annex to the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/447.
ISO standard 14067:2018, Greenhouse gases — Carbon footprint of products — Requirements and guidelines for quantification (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/71206.html).
[^E0357]: (3)
ISO standard 14064-1:2018, Greenhouse gases — Part 1: Specification with guidance at the organization level for quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and removals (version of 4.6.2021: https://www.iso.org/standard/66453.html.)
9.2. Research, development and innovation for direct air capture of CO2
Description of the activity
Research, applied research and experimental development of solutions, processes, technologies, business models and other products dedicated to the direct air capture of CO2 in the atmosphere.
The economic activities in this category could be associated with several NACE codes, in particular M71.1.2 and M72.1 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006.
An economic activity in this category is an enabling activity as referred to in Article 10(1), point (i), of Regulation (EU) 2020/852 where it complies with the technical screening criteria set out in this Section.
Technical screening criteria
| | |
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